Phalaenopsis with leaf problems

[Bob Tait]

I am new to OrchidTalk and have a number of Phalaenopsis two to three years old. The leaves are not healthy on any of them, somewhat shrived. I have tried watering and leave them alone for long periods. Had a lady from the Orchid Society in Palm Beach at a potting class tell us to water and fertillize each time they dry out. No change. The planrs develop very healthy roots but never bloom. Lots of light, very little direct sun. Can anyone help?

[cindiras]

Bob, Shriveled leaves mean not enough water getting to the plant. This could mean the roots are not taking in enough water to support the plant, or it could mean the plant is expiring water faster thn the roots can take it up. What is the humidity in the area where you have your phals?

[eaglssong]

Bob,

I don't know enough myself to be able to help you with this problem, but there will be others along who can and will.

I just wanted to welcome another South Floridian to OT.

[margo]

Hi, Bob! Welcome to OT! Glad to have you join us! Can you post some pics of your phals? Well be easier if we see them.

[Brutal_Dreamer]

Hi Bob, welcome to OrchidTalk. If you have a photo of the phals, it would be helpful. It sounds like some root stress.

Cheers,
BD

[sadie]

Shrivelled leaves undoubtedly mean that the plant isn't getting enough water. That can be caused by a couple of things as suggested above: (1) you aren't watering frequently enough, media is drying out etc; or (2) the roots have rotted--often caused by too much water which may seem paradoxical, but true.

First thing I would do, is take the plant out of the pot and look at the roots. They should be firm and white/gray with green tips. If they are mushy or dark brown/black then you have root rot. It would be really helpful if you posted a photo of hte plant including the roots or at least described them to us.